Oct 23 2023

KTM's Best Naked Bikes: A Closer Look at Unrivaled Performance

Last updated on 10/23/2023 12:00:00 AM

KTM's Best Naked Bikes: A Closer Look at Unrivaled Performance

When people talk about motorcycles, there's a category that stands out for its raw, unfiltered approach to riding – naked bikes. These machines strip away the excess, leaving behind a design focused on performance and agility. Also known as streetfighters, these bikes have gained immense popularity for their distinctive design and uncompromised performance.

Unlike their fully faired counterparts, the best naked bikes boast exposed engines, minimalistic styling, and a focus on rider engagement. The absence of a windscreen and fairings provides riders with a more direct connection to the road. Among the champions of the best naked bikes genre, KTM has emerged as a prominent player, offering a lineup of motorcycles that redefine the riding experience.

The KTM Duke series, in particular, exemplifies the brand's commitment to delivering pure, agile riding fun in any condition. Let's delve into the specifics of the four best naked bikes that define KTM's commitment to unrivalled performance.

KTM 390 Duke: The Powerhouse


At the apex of the KTM Duke’s best naked bikes range sits the mighty KTM 390 Duke, offering fantastic agility and precise handling.

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  • Thrilling Power-to-Weight Ratio: Unleashing an impressive 46 horsepower from its 398.63cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, the KTM 390 Duke offers a power-to-weight ratio that promises an exhilarating riding experience.
  • Precision Handling: Equipped with a split trellis frame and advanced WP suspension, the 390 Duke delivers unparalleled agility and precise handling, ensuring optimal control on diverse terrains.
  • Fuel Injection Performance: The Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system ensures precise and optimal combustion. It helps boost power, fuel efficiency, and responsiveness.
  • Optimised Cooling: Liquid cooling efficiently dissipates heat generated during intensive riding, preventing the engine from reaching undesirable temperatures.

KTM 250 Duke: Dynamic Performance in a Compact Package


For riders seeking a perfect balance between power and agility, the KTM 250 Duke emerges as a compelling choice amongst the best naked bikes.

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  • Powerful Heart: At the core of the KTM Duke 250's performance prowess is its robust single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected (FI) engine. This configuration delivers a responsive and powerful riding experience.
  • Dynamic Performance: This bike boasts a 249.07 cc engine displacement, enabling riders to harness an impressive amount of power while maintaining agility and ease of handling.
  • Impressive Power and Torque: The KTM 250 Duke is not shy when it comes to power delivery. With 31 PS of power at 9250 rpm and a torque of 25 Nm at 7250 rpm, this motorcycle offers an exhilarating ride.
  • Tailored Riding Experience: The WP APEX monoshock with 10-step preload adjustability allows riders to fine-tune the bike's suspension to match their riding style and preferences.

KTM 200 Duke: The Urban Maverick


Designed for urban explorers and riders seeking a versatile companion, the KTM 200 DUKE combines agility with an approachable power delivery.

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  • Potent Powerhouse: This is one of the best naked bikes that have a potent single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, dual overhead camshaft FI engine. It helps deliver a punchy and responsive performance.
  • Optimal Displacement: With its 199.5 cc engine displacement, this bike is tailored to provide riders with an optimal combination of power and manoeuvrability, making it suitable for both urban commuting and spirited rides through winding roads.
  • Fuel Efficiency and Precision: The KTM 200 Duke optimises fuel delivery for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. This results in improved throttle response and reduced emissions.
  • Engine Longevity: The wet sump, forced lubrication system ensures that critical engine components receive a constant supply of lubrication. This design contributes to maintaining peak performance, even under demanding riding conditions.

KTM 125 Duke: The Entry-Level Thrill


For riders entering the world of performance motorcycling, the KTM 125 Duke serves as an ideal initiation into the world of the best naked bikes.

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  • Ideal Displacement: Designed as an entry-level bike, the KTM 125 Duke features a 124.7 cc engine. This displacement strikes a balance between approachability for new riders and delivering an exhilarating ride.
  • Power and Torque: With 14.5 PS of power at 9250 rpm and a torque of 12 Nm at 8000 rpm, this motorcycle delivers as promised to riders who are new to the world of motorcycling.
  • Optimal Temperature Control: Efficient temperature control is crucial for consistent performance, and the 125 Duke achieves this with a liquid cooling system featuring a radiator.
  • Precision Suspension: The KTM 125 Duke features WP USD forks at the front and a WP monoshock at the rear. This setup provides riders with controlled handling.

Elevate Your Riding Experience


KTM's Duke series stands as a testament to the brand's dedication to delivering uncompromised performance. The 390 Duke, 250 Duke, 200 Duke, and 125 Duke collectively showcase KTM's commitment to providing riders with an exhilarating and authentic motorcycling experience with the best naked bikes.
Each model in the KTM Duke range shares a common DNA – the pursuit of pure, agile riding fun. As we continue to push the boundaries of performance motorcycling, the Duke series remains an unrivalled choice for riders who crave the excitement of the open road - unfiltered and unadulterated.

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